FEMA Resolves Several Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Lawsuits, Establishes Processes that Benefit Third-Party Represented Claimants

SANTA FE, N.M. — FEMA’s Claims Office recently resolved seven lawsuits pending in federal court arising from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The settlements benefit claimants by expanding guidance on FEMA’s communications with individuals represented by lawyers, establishing a cooperative process to streamline the review of lawyer-provided documentation, and allowing claims payments to be made into Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Accounts (IOLTA) held by claimants’ attorneys. The settlement terms apply only to claimants represented by counsel in the settled cases but can apply to any claimant whose attorney reviews and agrees to them. 

“We have followed these court cases closely and believe their joint resolution benefit claimants represented by third parties,” said Jay Mitchell, Director of Operations of the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “The resolution of these lawsuits allows the Claims Office to more efficiently process claims and speed up claimants’ post-fire recovery.”

The settlement provides for more efficient processing of third-party represented claims. Among other things, it changes the documentation submission timeline, whereby lawyers agree to submit organized and complete documentation to the Claims Office no later than 60 days after a claim is filed. This will accelerate the claims process for claimants represented by an attorney. 

The settlement also provides that FEMA can continue communicating with third-party represented claimants using the Claims Office’s “Intent to Proceed Without Counsel” form after attempting to reach claimant's counsel. This provides claimants the opportunity to quickly receive updates on their claims.

“We support any resolution that enhances the claimant experience, improves the speed of payments, and increases transparency into our operations and the claims process,” said Mitchell, “Our staff will continue working closely with third-party representation, meeting with law firms both in group settings and one-on-one, to ensure compensable claims are processed for payment in an expedient manner. The improving and positive relationship we maintain with attorneys plays a crucial role in enabling our mission and ensuring claimants receive timely and fair compensation. We will continue to prioritize strategic and operational improvements so that claimants receive the support they need to file a claim by the November 14 deadline.”

FEMA is represented in the seven lawsuits by Samantha Kelly, Roberto Ortega, and Nicholas Sydow of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico. The United States Attorney’s Office continues to represent FEMA and other Federal Agencies in other litigation related to the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez said, “Our number one goal is to ensure the fair, consistent, and timely handling of claims, as well as the expeditious dispersal of compensation to those impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire. The speedy and amicable resolution of these claims helps to ensure that FEMA can meet the needs of New Mexicans through an equitable implementation of Congress’ directives in the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act.”

As of Aug. 1, the Claims Office has paid 318 third-party represented claims totaling $162.9 million. Currently, there are 1,071 third-party represented claims totaling $91.2 million awaiting claimant response. 

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to start a claim with the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office if they haven’t already. Per the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act, the deadline to submit a Notice of Loss is November 14, 2024. 

Claims Office compensation is not taxable. Receiving payment from the Claims Office will not impact eligibility for government assistance programs. Contact a tax professional for specific tax-related questions. Questions and concerns can also be addressed by calling your claim Navigator or the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. At the time of publication, the FEMA Claims Office has paid $996.6 million to claimants. 

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.  

amy.ashbridge Thu, 08/01/2024 - 21:16

2024 Wildfire Preparedness

DENVER – Colorado, Wyoming and several other states are currently fighting multiple fires that are prompting evacuations, causing power outages, and impacting air quality with heavy smoke. FEMA Region 8 has approved federal assistance to battle five fires across Colorado, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. In addition to supporting these firefighting efforts, we encourage personal preparedness for those who may be impacted by wildfire activity. 

“This is an important time to be thinking about personal preparedness,” said FEMA Region 8 Deputy Regional Administrator Katherine Fox. “I live in a county that is currently fighting a fire and so I’m getting their emergency alerts. I know first-hand what a stressful time this is. Having a plan and a few essential items ready is helpful to me personally.”  

For those living in the communities under the threat of wildfires, consider these preparedness steps from Ready.gov: 

• Sign up for your local emergency alerts from your local public safety officials.
• Develop a plan to meet the specific needs your household may face during a disaster or an evacuation.  
• Put together an emergency kit that can support you and your family for several days. This may contain important personal documents, clothes, medications, your cell phone and charger, other essentials, and comfort items.
• Plan for and prepare your pets and other large animals for disasters and potential evacuations. 
• Understand the way out. Know the evacuation routes from your home and community and think ahead to where you and your family can temporarily relocate. 
• Download the FEMA App to receive real-time weather and emergency alerts, send notifications to loved ones, locate emergency shelters in your area, get preparedness strategies and more.

Smoke from the wildfires have impacted the air quality in the region. Limit your time outside, monitor the local news and visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow page to get updated air quality information and for more tips to protect your family. 

Visit https://www.ready.gov/wildfires for more information on how to make you and your family more prepared for the wildfires you may face where you live and work. 

anthony.mayne Thu, 08/01/2024 - 20:25

Greenfield Disaster Recovery Center Moving

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Adair County is relocating from the Elementary School to City Hall. The center will provide one-on-one help for people affected by recent flooding and severe storms.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.

Nodaway Valley 

Elementary School

324 N.W. Second St.

Greenfield. IA 50849

Open 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Closing Saturday, August 3

Greenfield City Hall

202 S. 1st St.

Greenfield, IA 50849

Opening Monday, Aug. 5 from 1–6 p.m.

Then open daily from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Closed on Sundays

.

FEMA can provide money to eligible homeowners and renters for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs, rental assistance and other needs not covered by insurance.

To save time, please apply with FEMA online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center.

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app

Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

thomas.wise Thu, 08/01/2024 - 19:39

Dunbar Disaster Recovery Center closed temporarily Saturday

Media Advisory

Dunbar Disaster Recovery Center closed temporarily Saturday

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– The following state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will be closed temporarily Saturday, Aug. 3, due to a previously scheduled event at the location. It will resume normal operations Monday, Aug. 5.

The center is located at:

Kanawha County

Dunbar Recreation Center

2601 Fairlawn Ave.

Dunbar, WV 25064

Normal hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

West Virginia residents affected by severe storms April 11-12 can visit a Disaster Recovery Center to get help registering for FEMA disaster assistance. To locate one, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov). The FEMA registration deadline for the April 11-12 storm is Sept. 3, 2024.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

issa.mansaray Thu, 08/01/2024 - 18:44

Senior Living Homes Will Be Repaired with an Allocation of Over $1.3 Million From FEMA

The works will help bring services to more than 300 seniors

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― Over $1.3 million in funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were allocated to repair three senior living homes in the municipalities of Dorado, Ponce and Culebra. These projects, like similar ones, are focused on providing adequate and safe places for Puerto Rico's elderly population.

These three centers will benefit around 300 senior citizens. According to the 2023 census, the population over 65 years of age in Puerto Rico is around 771,000 people. 

“The elderly are especially vulnerable in times of disaster. For FEMA, it is vital to help them have care facilities and places of recreation that offer the appropriate conditions for their health and safety. The repairs to these three centers not only benefit these seniors, but also their respective families. This is all part of our commitment to the comprehensive recovery of Puerto Rico,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

One of the homes that has already completed its repairs is the La Nueva Aurora, Carmen Josefina “Cambu” López Rijos Senior Center in Dorado, with an allocation of over $779,200. The center serves 120 participants aged 60 or older and other 130 people, including regular participants and others to whom food service is provided at home. Voltage regulators were repaired here, lighting fixtures, metal roofs of the gazebos, water tank, exhaust fans and air conditioners were replaced. Furthermore, the mold situation in the bathroom ceilings was remediated and doors, windows and security cameras were replaced, among other things.

According to the center's director and social worker María Brito, the place has an arts and crafts room, an interior patio, a terrace, a dining room, a kitchen and a food pantry. La Nueva Aurora provides entertainment spaces for participants, as well as breakfast, snacks and lunch. They have 30 employees and provide social work, nursing, recreation, housekeeper and transportation services, among others. 

“There are educational talks, health clinics, crafts, and they have spaces to rest and enjoy themselves, play dominoes, bingo and a walking trail. This is a complete program full of love, and the services are free, since the center operates with combined funds from the Office of the Ombudsman for The Elderly and the municipality of Dorado,” said Brito.

As part of the hazard mitigation measures, a sealant was applied to roofs and walls to prevent water infiltration, storm drains were installed, wooden doors were replaced with aluminum ones, and gazebos were equipped with ties to withstand high winds, among others. This was accomplished with a budget of over $219,000 earmarked for these purposes.

“All damage was repaired, and the participants are happy. This is their second home; they see that it’s beautiful and that is good for them because they take good care of the center. Thanks to these repairs, enrollment has increased and there is a better quality of life, as well as a lot of socializing. These services are important for the elderly population because they help them discover their interests and continue being useful and skillful,” added Brito.

Participants agree with her, such as José Enrique Maisonet, known as “Cachachán,” who enjoys painting and the arts and crafts workshops; and Carmen del Pilar Abreu Motta, who said that her son takes her in the mornings and the center provides transportation to return home in the afternoons. Both said they were happy with how they are treated and with the activities provided.

Furthermore, the Ernestina Rodríguez Senior Home in Ponce has just begun reconstruction work. This home built in 1892 serves 40 seniors and serves as a shelter for the community in case of emergencies. The allocation of nearly $489,000 will help seal the roof and replace air conditioners, a masonry wall, light fixtures, doors, two freezers and ice storage, in addition to repairing a generator, among other work. With over $79,000 for mitigation measures, an additional treatment will be given to the roof to protect it against impact of debris and anchors will be added to the gazebo’s roof and the roof.

Likewise, in the island municipality of Culebra, the Marcelina Díaz Pellot Senior Center received an allocation of over $69,000 to repair the facilities where they provide day care to about 20 seniors each month. Among the services they offer are breakfast, snacks and lunch, as well as activities such as reading, exercise, arts and crafts, board games and trips to the beach. They also organize activities with other centers, and they accompany participants on their errands. 

With the funds allocated by FEMA, the air conditioning compressor, the steel posts and the electrical meter panels were replaced. The roof was waterproofed as part of the mitigation measures for which nearly $10,000 were allocated.

To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $34 billion for over 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María. 

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery,  visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

LA NUEVA AURORA, CARMEN JOSEFINA “CAMBU” LÓPEZ RIJOS SENIOR CENTER, DORADO, PR

Dorado, Puerto Rico (July 24, 2024) - Over $1.3 million in funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were allocated to repair three senior living homes in the municipalities of Dorado, Ponce and Culebra. One of the homes that has already completed its repairs is the La Nueva Aurora, Carmen Josefina “Cambu” López Rijos Senior Center in Dorado, with an allocation of over $779,200. Voltage regulators were repaired here, lighting fixtures, metal roofs of the gazebos, water tank, exhaust fans and air conditioners were replaced. Photo FEMA/Lorraine Valle

ERNESTINA RODRÍGUEZ SENIOR HOME, PONCE, PR

Ponce, Puerto Rico (July 26, 2024) – The Ernestina Rodríguez Senior Home in Ponce has just begun reconstruction work. The allocation of nearly $489,000 by FEMA will help seal the roof and replace air conditioners, a masonry wall, light fixtures, doors, two freezers and ice storage, in addition to repairing a generator, among other work. With over $79,000 for mitigation measures, an additional treatment will be given to the roof to protect it against impact of debris and anchors will be added to the gazebo’s roof and the roof. This home built in 1892 serves 40 seniors and serves as a shelter for the community in case of emergencies. Photo FEMA/Carmen Edith Torres

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 08/01/2024 - 17:17

Apply for FEMA Assistance by August 14

OKLAHOMA CITY –  Oklahomans affected by the May 19-28 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding have until August 14 to apply for FEMA assistance.

This deadline is for residents of Blaine, Caddo, Custer, Delaware, Jackson, Mayes, Muskogee and Rogers counties.

If you were affected by the storms, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA may be able to help with rent, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.

There are four ways to apply:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
• Download the FEMA App.
• Visit the Disaster Recovery Center at the Rogers County Health Department:
  2664 N. Highway 88
  Claremore, OK 74017
  Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday.

To watch a video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4791. Follow FEMA Region 6 on X at x.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

martyce.allenjr Thu, 08/01/2024 - 15:47

State/Federal Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Sikeston

Cape Girardeau, MO – A joint Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) opens Thursday morning in Sikeston to give storm survivors an opportunity to talk face-to-face with disaster recovery specialists. 

The center is located at the YMCA, 511 Taylor St. in Sikeston and will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until further notice.  The center will be closed on Sundays. 

DRCs are a one-stop shop for disaster survivors who have applied with FEMA and need to present additional documentation or just have questions about the status of their cases.  In addition to FEMA staff, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be on hand to help survivors apply for low-interest disaster loans to help fund recovery efforts. 

The FEMA assistance, granted last week by President Biden, helps eligible homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in 10 Missouri counties who were impacted by the May 19-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. 

The 10 counties are: Barry, Butler, Carter, Howell, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas.

Federal assistance to individuals and households can be in the form of grants to: find a temporary place to live, make minimal home repairs and/or to replace certain personal property.  Eligible survivors who need accessibility equipment also may benefit from these grants. 

Survivors are encouraged to apply with FEMA before visiting a DRC to make your trip there the most efficient.  Individuals who are having difficulty applying can go to a DRC and get help with filing their initial application.  

Here are the 3 best ways to apply: 

• Online: www.disasterassistance.gov 
• Phone:  800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app
• Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

For more disaster-related information, visit the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency online at www.sema.dps.mo.gov or FEMA at www.fema.gov and www.fema.gov/disaster/4803. 

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. 

Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available. 

thomas.wise Thu, 08/01/2024 - 14:15

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Clay and Warren Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Today two mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Clay and Warren counties to assist Kentucky survivors who experienced loss from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. 

The mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are located at: 

• Clay County: Clay County Community Center, 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962.  Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Eastern Time, from July 31 to Aug. 2.   
• Warren County: Sugar Maple Square Shopping Center, 1347 KY 185, Bowling Green, KY 42101. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, from July 31 to Aug. 2, and from Aug. 5 to Aug. 10.

Two other Disaster Recovery Centers are already operating in Hopkins County and Muhlenberg County.

• Hopkins County: 114 Madison Square Drive, Madisonville, KY 42431. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday; closed on Sunday.
• Muhlenberg County: Muhlenberg County Training Center, 61 Career Way, Central City, KY 42330. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday; closed on Sunday.

Kentucky homeowners and renters in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at the Disaster Recovery Centers. FEMA representatives will help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. 

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

Go to YouTube: FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance.

sandra.habib Thu, 08/01/2024 - 13:47

Two Weeks Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance After April 26-June 5 Storms and Flooding in Texas

AUSTIN -- Texans who sustained losses from the storms and flooding April 26-June 5 have until Aug. 15 to apply for federal assistance. 

Homeowners and renters in Anderson, Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Navarro, Newton, Panola, Polk, San Jacinto, Rusk, Sabine, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties with uninsured losses can apply in several ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations and businesses of any size. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster or by calling 800-659-2955.  SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at the Disaster Recovery Centers throughout the affected area. Aug. 15 is the deadline for physical disaster loan applications.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at @femaregion6.

larissa.hale Thu, 08/01/2024 - 13:31

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Galveston, Nacogdoches Counties Aug. 2

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening Disaster Recovery Centers in Galveston and Nacogdoches counties Aug. 2 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center locations:

Galveston County

Galveston County Health District

9850 Emmett F. Lowry Expressway

Texas City, TX 77591

Nacogdoches County

Nacogdoches Expo and Civic Center

3805 NW Stallings Dr.

Nacogdoches, TX 75964

The centers operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

To shorten wait times at Disaster Recovery Centers, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:

• Go online to disasterassistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App  for mobile devices.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at  x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Thu, 08/01/2024 - 12:21

Stay In Touch With FEMA

Iowans affected by recent tornadoes, storms and flooding should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure their disaster assistance process stays on track.

FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters in Adair, Adams, Buena Vista, Cedar, Cherokee, Clarke, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Harrison, Humboldt, Jasper, Lyon, Mills, Montgomery, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Sioux, Story, Union and Woodbury counties. 

You can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 and check on the status of your application. Your application could be missing information that may prevent it from being completed.

You should also update any new contact information as soon as possible, as FEMA may need to reach you to update your application or get additional information.

You may update contact information by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Using the FEMA app
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. Go to FEMA.gov/DRC to find a DRC near you.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as amplified phones, caption phones, video phones, wheelchair ramps and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.

For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: http;//www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU&wzRiByhi.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Press 2 for Spanish. 

thomas.wise Wed, 07/31/2024 - 19:57

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for New Mexico

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of New Mexico by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures in the areas affected by the South Fork fire, the Salt fire and flooding from June 17, 2024, and continuing. 

The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased to 100% for a 30-day period of the state’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance in designated counties, as well as the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 07/31/2024 - 18:26

FEMA Authorizes Funds for Colorado’s Alexander Mountain and Stone Canyon Fires

DENVER – FEMA has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Alexander Mountain Fire burning in Larimer County near Masonville, west of Loveland and the Stone Canyon Fire burning in Boulder County near Lyons. 

FEMA Region 8 Deputy Administrator Katherine Fox approved the state’s requests for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving each request this morning and determining that the fires threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster. FEMA remains in contact with the state for any additional requests or needs. 

At the time of the request for assistance with the Alexander Mountain Fire, it was threatening more than 2000 homes and other structures, and is also threatening roads, bridges, infrastructure, utilities and watersheds. The fire started on July 29, 2024 and has burned more than 5,000 acres of federal and private land, prompting mandatory evacuations for more than 4,000 people. It is zero-percent contained. 

At the time of the request for assistance with the Stone Canyon Fire, the fire was threatening more than 480 homes and other structures as well as roads, bridges, infrastructure and utilities. Two structures have been destroyed and injuries have been sustained by four firefighters. The fire started on July 30, 2024, and has burned more than 1,500 acres of private land. It is zero percent contained. 

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75-percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. It is a reimbursable program. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. 

When there is an FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

anthony.mayne Wed, 07/31/2024 - 18:00

FEMA Assistance Available for Self- Employed Survivors

FEMA Disaster Assistance is available for self-employed survivors, including farmers, ranch hands, artists, musicians and mechanics, affected by the flooding, severe storms and tornadoes in 27 Iowa counties.

Self-employed survivors in Adair, Adams, Buena Vista, Cedar, Cherokee, Clarke, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Harrison, Humboldt, Jasper, Lyon, Mills, Montgomery, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Sioux, Story, Union and Woodbury counties may apply for assistance.

FEMA can help replace tools and equipment required for self-employment. This includes tools not provided by an employer, but required for employment, and includes:

• Computers
• Equipment such as power tools, art materials, musical instruments, tractors, utility vehicles, lawnmowers and ladders
• Uniforms

You may be reimbursed for these items if they were damaged by the disaster, you do not have another working item, and the loss was not covered by insurance.

Required Documents

• Documentation that proves you’re self-employed, such as a tax return.
• Insurance documents for all potential coverages and benefits.
• Itemized receipts or estimates for repairing or replacing the requested items.
• A written statement that explains why you need the items for self-employment.

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app
• FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis.

Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Press 2 for Spanish. 

thomas.wise Wed, 07/31/2024 - 17:23

Federal Support in Maine Continues Six Months After Severe Storms and Flooding

From January 9-13, 2024, eight coastal counties in Maine were hit with back-to-back severe storms that brought significant flooding and damage. Six months later, federal support is continuing to help Mainers move forward in their recovery including funds for home repair, emergency lodging, transportation, and other needs.

On March 20, 2024, President Joseph Biden declared a Major Disaster for the state of Maine making federal funding available to affected individuals in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties. Federal funding was also made available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties.

Since the President’s declaration, families, businesses, and communities continue to rebuild with the help of federal assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. So far, $4,764,728.34 has been approved for Individual Assistance for more than 800 households. Across the state, SBA has approved $6,116,200 in loans to both businesses and homeowners since March of this year. 

“Mainers are making great strides towards recovery from these January storms, and I thank Governor Janet Mills and the Maine Emergency Management Agency for being excellent partners throughout this process,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer, Bob Fogel. “I also extend my gratitude to FEMA employees deployed to Maine who are selflessly carrying out our agency’s mission of helping people before, during, and after disasters.”  

The deadline to apply for FEMA individual assistance for the January 9-13 severe storms has passed. However, FEMA is still available to help applicants and answer any questions that may arise concerning your recovery.

To stay in touch with FEMA:

• Visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362. People who use a relay service, captioned telephone service or other assistive service should give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available. 

adrien.urbani Wed, 07/31/2024 - 15:46

FEMA Approves $2 Million for Hurricane Ian Debris Removal in Okeechobee County

LAKE MARY, Fla.– FEMA is announcing $2,062,817 in grant funding to reimburse Okeechobee County for Hurricane Ian debris removal.  

The storm left extensive debris, resulting in a threat to public health and safety. Approximately 180,868 cubic yards of vegetative debris and 4,796 cubic yards of hurricane-generated debris were removed from roads and public property.  

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, local, territorial and tribal governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Wed, 07/31/2024 - 15:37

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Wyoming’s Pleasant Valley Fire

DENVER – FEMA has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Pleasant Valley Fire burning in Platte County, Wyoming near Hartville following a request from the state last night. 

FEMA Region 8 Deputy Administrator Katherine Fox approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request last night and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Pleasant Valley Fire was threatening 100 primary homes near Hartville as well as threatening buildings, infrastructure, utilities and watersheds in the area. The fire started July 30 and has burned more than 100 acres of state and private land with zero-percent containment.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75-percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. It is a reimbursable program. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. 

When there is an FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

anthony.mayne Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:57

Updated FEMA Individual Assistance Benefits Kentuckians Affected by May 21-27 Severe Weather

FRANKFORT, KY. – To better serve disaster survivors, FEMA has recently implemented significant updates to its Individual Assistance program. These updates apply to Kentuckians who were affected by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. The revised program offers new benefits, expanded eligibility, and a simplified application process.

New Benefits

Serious Needs Assistance 

FEMA may provide money to help you pay for essential items like food, water, baby formula, medication, and other emergency supplies. 

Displacement Assistance 

You may be eligible for money to help with immediate housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends, or other options while you look for an alternate housing solution. 

Expanded Eligibility

Simplified Other Needs Assistance 

Homeowners, renters and businessowners who need additional help to recover can apply for a low-interest disaster loan with the U.S. Small Business Administration at the same time as applying for assistance from FEMA.

Help Underinsured People

If you received an insurance payout that did not cover the cost of damage to your home or property, you may be eligible to receive money from FEMA. Keep in mind, FEMA assistance is not a replacement for home, renter’s or flood insurance, and will not cover all losses from a disaster.

Expanded Criteria for Home Repair Assistance

You may receive money to repair the parts of your home damaged by the disaster regardless of pre-existing conditions. You can also make repairs that prevent similar damage from future disasters.

Make Accessibility Improvements 

FEMA can also help by providing money to help you make accessibility repairs to your home (such as exterior ramp, grab bars, and paved path to the home entrance) if you have a disability. Repairs can be made when these items are damaged during a disaster. Improvements to the home can be made when these features were not present before the disaster but are needed due to a pre-existing disability or a disability caused by the disaster.

Simplified Assistance for Self Employed Applicants

If you are self-employed, FEMA may offer money to repair or replace the disaster-damaged tools and equipment needed to do your job. 

Expanded Assistance for Computing Devices 

You may now receive money for a personal or family computer that is damaged by a disaster. You may also receive money for additional computers required for work, school or access and functional needs.

Simplified Application Process

Streamlined Temporary Housing Assistance Applications

We have reduced the documentation requirements if you are seeking continued temporary housing assistance. Individual caseworkers will engage closely with you to offer support and increase transparency. 

Removed Barriers for Late Applicants

If you are requesting approval for a late application, you no longer have to provide documentation supporting the reason for your late application. 

Simplify the Process for Appeals 

If you disagree with a FEMA decision and wish to appeal, you will no longer need to provide a signed, written appeal letter to accompany the supporting documentation.   

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster. 

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:34

Five Steps to a More Disaster-Resilient Home

• Reinforce Your Residence. Retrofitting your home can provide structural updates that didn’t exist when it was built. For example, a homeowner can install straps to their roof’s structural beams to make it strong enough to resist the "uplift" effect of high winds that can cause the roof to lift and collapse back down on the house.
• Defend Those Doors. Garage or double-entry doors can fail under wind pressure. Garage doors can be reinforced with girds and by strengthening the wheel tracks. Double-entry doors can be reinforced with a heavy-duty deadbolt, adding slide bolts on one of the doors, and using longer hinge attachments on the door and frame.
• Guard Your Glass. Storm shutters prevent windows from breaking when there is windborne debris. You can also add shatter-resistant film or stormproof high-impact glass to reduce the chances of glass breaking.
• Trim and Tighten. Consider trimming tree branches that may pose a threat to your home and securing outdoor furniture and fuel tanks that can serve as projectiles during high wind events.
• Ensure You’re Fully Insured. Take the time to review your insurance coverages and talk to your agent to verify your household is adequately insured for high-wind events and other disaster risks in your community.

Federal Funds Available to Help You Reduce Your Home’s Disaster Risk

Homeowners who received FEMA assistance may receive additional funds for specific risk reduction measures such as roof repairs to withstand higher winds. Learn more at Hazard Mitigation Under the Individuals and Households Program.

In addition, U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans can be increased up to 20 percent to make building upgrades to help protect a home or business against future disasters.

Learn more at SBA Mitigation Assistance.

For even more tips to protect your home in high-wind events, you may also visit Protect Your Property From Severe Winds Brochure 2023 (fema.gov).

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or visit the Disaster Recovery Center at Northwest Arkansas Community College’s Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technologies (Building 15) at 1000 SE Eagle Way, Room B103. The phone line is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. The deadline for applications is August 28, 2024. 

If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). Line is open M-F 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

bree-constance… Wed, 07/31/2024 - 13:58

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Major Disaster Declaration for Minnesota, Authorizing Additional Federal Assistance to Help Individuals and Families Jumpstart Recovery Following Severe Storms and Flooding

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional federal assistance available to disaster survivors to aid in their recovery from severe storms and flooding that occurred from June 16 – July 4, 2024. 

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Blue Earth, Cook, Cottonwood, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Itasca, Jackson, Lake, Le Sueur, Mower, Nicollet, Nobles, Rice, Rock, St. Louis, Steele, Waseca and Watonwan counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. 

John F. Boyle has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

amy.ashbridge Tue, 07/30/2024 - 21:24